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  • 8 day Southern Alps Explorer
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Similar itineraries
  • 1. 8 day Dunedin, Queenstown, Milford Sound and the Glaciers, Staying in Motels
  • 2. 8 day Southern Sights Explorer, Staying in Hotel 3 star
  • 3. 8 day Glacier and Queenstown Explorer, Staying in Motels

8 day Southern Alps Explorer

Independent daily departures, Christchurch to Christchurch

NZ$2,530 from per person twin share, low season
Tour map
Included in this journey you'll find:
  • 7 nights Motels accommodation
  • All coach tour transport as specified in this tour package
  • Private train station transfers
  • Private airport transfers
  • TranzAlpine Train from Greymouth to Christchurch
  • Real Journeys Milford Sound nature cruise
  • Ice Explorer tour
Send enquiry
See prices

See the South Islands highlights including Mt Cook National Park. Queenstown, Milford Sound, the West Coast Glaciers. Take the world famous Tranz Apine Scenic Train to Christchurch.

This itinerary can be customised or we can tailor-make something to suit you perfectly.

Similar itineraries  
  • 1. 8 day Dunedin, Queenstown, Milford Sound and the Glaciers, Staying in Motels
  • 2. 8 day Southern Sights Explorer, Staying in Hotel 3 star
  • 3. 8 day Glacier and Queenstown Explorer, Staying in Motels
 
Day 1 - Welcome to Christchurch

Private transfer Christchurch airport to your accommodation

On arrival you will be met by a private driver and delivered to your Christchurch accommodation.

Christchurch Hop On Hop Off City Tour - 24 Hour Ticket - suggested

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 1
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 1
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 1
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 1

Discover the true magic of city sightseeing on-board this city tour bus. With a mix of open and closed top buses, you will ride in comfort and style, enjoying spectacular views. Join friendly local guides as they take you on a journey of discovery through Christchurch. Listen to "live" entertaining and informative commentary and learn about the fascinating history, from pioneering days to modern times.

Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
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Day 2 - Christchurch to Mt Cook National Park to Queenstown

Christchurch to Queenstown with GreatSights (Includes Lunch)

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 2
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 2
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 2
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 2

Leaving Christchurch in the morning, travel through the fertile farmland of the Canterbury Plains to the shores of the stunning, glacier-fed Lake Tekapo, where you can view the solitary Church of the Good Shepherd and take in the sights of the spectacular Southern Alps. Then continue to the location of New Zealand's tallest mountain, Aoraki / Mount Cook, situated in a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site. Rising to 3,754 metres high, Aoraki certainly lives up to its name, which in Māori can be translated as 'cloud piercer'.
At Mt Cook Village you'll enjoy lunch at the famous Hermitage Hotel. After lunch you'll have time to explore the village and soak up the view. The tour continues south, past Lake Pukaki and through the tawny tussock of the Mackenzie Country. En route, enjoy a stop in the quaint village of Omarama. Your tour concludes in the evening upon reaching Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Meals included: Lunch

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room paid access
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 3 - Free day to enjoy Queenstown

Free day in Queenstown

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3

Although celebrated as New Zealand's ‘adventure capital’ Queenstown offers far more than a fast paced action-packed holiday. Settled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu beneath a soaring panorama of the Remarkables Mountain Range, this alpine town is surrounded by a plethora of historic, gastronomic and scenic wonders. Head down the Gibbston valley wine trail to sample some of the region’s best Pinot or catch a ride on the 100 year old Steamship - the TSS Earnslaw -  to Walter Peak Station for dinner and a farm tour. Browse the waterfront cafes and have lunch at Michelin star chef Josh Emett's ‘Rata.’ Check out nearby historic Arrowtown and enhance your experience with a four wheel drive trip to Macetown. Take a leisurely lakeside stroll or ride the gondola for breathtaking views. Venture further afield into the Fiordland National Park or head over the Crown Range to Wanaka. Drive through Lord Of The Rings country - or for the really fanatic, jump aboard one of many dedicated LOTR tours. And after all of that - if you do really want the adrenaline rush Queenstown is known for, take your pick from the Shotover Jet, Nevis Bungy, Canyon Swing, Zipline, Luge or White Water rafting.
 

Shotover Jet - Canyon Jet Boat Ride - suggested

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3

Shotover Jet is the only company permitted to operate in the spectacular Shotover River Canyons. It's a thrilling ride - skimming past rocky outcrops at close range in your Shotover Jet 'Big Red', as you twist and turn through the narrow canyons at breath taking speeds. And a major highlight - hold tight for the world famous Shotover Jet full 360 degree spins!

Queenstown Skyline Gondola Ride - suggested

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 3

Hop aboard the Skyline Gondola - the steepest cable car lift in the Southern hemisphere - and take in the awe-inspiring views of this spectacular landscape. Sit back and relax as you enjoy panoramic views of The Remarkables, Walter Peak, Cecil Peak and Coronet Peak - one of Queenstown's Ski field.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room paid access
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 4 - Real Journeys Milford Sound day tour including a nature cruise

Milford Sound Nature Cruise with return luxury coach transfers from Queenstown

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 4
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 4
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 4
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 4

Return luxury coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with an extended 2.5 hour Nature Cruise along the full length of the fiord. On board a Real Journeys luxury glass-roofed coach in Queenstown, you will enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through the rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. After a morning tea break in Te Anau, where you have the option of purchasing refreshments, the coach continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. On reaching Milford Sound, you board the Milford Mariner for a leisurely extended cruise of the fiord. The cruise provides excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time is available to enjoy waterfalls, rain forest, mountains and wildlife with extensive commentary by the on board nature guide. Includes picnic boxed lunch.

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Meals included: Lunch

Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation: Blue Peaks Lodge
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 2-5 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Internet facilities: In room paid access
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 5 - Queenstown to Franz Josef Glacier

Queenstown to Franz Josef with GreatSights

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 5
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 5
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 5
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 5

From Queenstown to Franz Josef discover the wild beauty of New Zealand's West Coast. Leaving Queenstown, travel by luxury coach through the stunning scenery of the South Island. Your driver guide will provide entertaining commentary and point out sites of interest as you pass by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Dunstan, Lake Wanaka and Lake Hawea. After a morning tea break in Makarora on the border of Mount Aspiring World Heritage Park, you'll travel through the Haast Pass, journeying through native beech forest and over the Southern Alps, before emerging on the West Coast. This remote area has a ruggedly beautiful landscape of vast rainforests, gushing waterfalls and snow-capped mountains. Skirt the coast and see waves crashing on rocky beaches before returning inland. Before arriving in the afternoon at the small village of Franz Josef. From here you can explore the world famous Franz Josef Glacier.

Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 5-10 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 6 - Explore Franz Josef including an amazing heli-hike

Franz Josef Glacier Helihike with The Helicopter Line

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6

Take a scenic flight over all three Franz Josef glacier icefalls. Landing high on the glacier take a two hour guided trip through some of the most beautiful terrain in the country. Your guide will choose the route as you go through a wonderland of blue ice and frozen pinnacles. You'll have endless views of the surrounding mountains and rainforest as well as plenty of opportunities to take photographs. Sure to be one of the most memorable experiences you have while you are in New Zealand. Should weather not be suitable to take this flight you are able to transfer your booking onto a similar tour on any of the Helicopter Line operations in Queenstown or Mt Cook.

Glacier Hot Pools - suggested

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 6

Nestled within the lush rainforest surrounds, the Glacier Hot Pools is a haven of tranquility. Unwind in one of the three main pools. Temperatures range from 36 to 40 degrees and the water comes directly from a glacial stream. Wash off the day and rejuvenate in this unique forest paradise.

Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation: Punga Grove Motel & Suites
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Walk time to shops/restaurants: 5-10 mins
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Breakfast service available
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
  • Hairdryer
  • Laundry facilities: On site
  • All rooms non smoking
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Day 7 - Franz Josef to Greymouth, then take the Tranz Alpine train to Christchurch

Franz Josef to Greymouth Train Station with GreatSights

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7

This morning travel north through the small townships of Whataroa and Harihari. Stop at the Bushman's Centre for refreshments and a chance to experience a bit of West Coast humour. Continue through the township of Ross, which in the late 1800s was the centre of one of New Zealand's richest alluvial goldfields. In 1903 the largest gold nugget ever found in New Zealand was discovered at Jones Creek, not far from the town centre. It weighed 2807 grams. The New Zealand Government later purchased the nugget and presented it as a coronation gift to King George V. On arrival in Hokitika there is time to purchase lunch and explore the town centre. Hokitika is the administrative and commercial centre for this part of Westland. The major primary industry is timber milling. Dairy and sheep farming, commercial fishing, white baiting and eel processing being the other major industries. Continue onto Greymouth Railway Station from where you catch the world famous TranzAlpine train across the Southern Alps to Christchurch.

TranzAlpine Scenic Train: Greymouth to Christchurch

8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7
8 day Southern Alps Explorer - day 7

Considered one of the world's great train journeys, the TranzAlpine Scenic Train takes you from Greymouth to Christchurch. You'll travel across the South Island from the west to the east coast through Arthur's Pass National Park. From the comfort of your carriage see lush beech forest, deep river valleys and the spectacular peaks of the Southern Alps. Descend to the windswept Canterbury Plains before arriving in the city of Christchurch.

Private Transfer Christchurch Train Station to Accommodation

On arrival into the Christchurch train station you will be met by a private transfer driver and taken to your accommodation.

Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch

Accommodation type: Motels - economy

Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation: Bella Vista Christchurch
Accommodation features
  • Check in time: 2 pm
  • Check out time: 10 am
  • Parking: onsite free parking
  • Tea/coffee facilities in room
  • Kitchen/kitchenette in room
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Day 8 - Depart Christchurch today

Private transfer to Christchurch airport

Your private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to Christchurch Airport in time for your departing flight.

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